Self-constructing robotic bases like SCARAB are the cutting edge in deep-space colonization technology in Tantalus Depths. The idea of a robot that is capable of building itself out of the resources it encounters may seem far-fetched, but did you know scientists today see this as a very real possibility? They’re called Von Neumann Probes, and they’re even more outlandish in reality than they are in Tantalus Depths.
Watch this video with Dr. Michio Kaku, and learn how a robotic spaceship the size of a needle could help humanity conquer the galaxy.

If the idea of a machine that builds itself is interesting to you, or the potentially disastrous results of giving a machine too much power over its own environment, please consider pre-ordering a copy of Tantalus Depths now. It explores this theme and many, many others.

Greetings Followers of the Space Sloth! 

It’s been a couple updates since I talked about the writing and funding process itself, so here goes. For those of you who are new to the book there is a completed first draft. Keep in mind the sample chapters on Inkshares are from this draft. 

Through the kindness of friends and family it is getting a thorough critique and is transforming as we speak. One person is reviewing it for interest, one for content, and one for structure. I’ve also been going through and adding bits and pieces of backstory and information that got left out the first time. I really am very happy with how the story is fleshing itself out. Publication aside, the fact that people are reading…and enjoying…the story is pretty cool. 

The funding process is chugging along slowly. The semester has come to a close. The paperwork is (almost) done. And my spring 50K ultramarathon is completed (Spartan Race is next if anyone is curious). So, more time for writing, editing, and promoting the book! 

Wish me luck and keep spreading the word where you can. The Space Sloth and her crew still needs your help. 

PT 

This glimpse into the world of “Fortunes of the Space Sloth” is brought to you from the Universal News Network archives. If you are intrigued to discover how the Agave Springs may factor into the story please express your interest with a Comment, Recommendation, or Referral. And if you really feel like you have to I’ll even accept Pre-Orders…

Mars Station (UNN) – The search was called off today for the civilian space service vessel Agave Springs.  The ship was under contract to make a colony resupply run to the new Minneopa sector.  The Agave Springs made its last check-in with TSA Control just before entering the Minneopa jump zone.  Two days later a courier vessel returning from Minneopa reported that she had not arrived and no trace or wreckage could be found of her.  A thorough search by TSA and Navy vessels failed to turn up any trace.  A review of ship’s logs and interviews with docking personnel at Mars Station have provided indications that the Agave Springs’ fusion engines may not have been maintained correctly and were operating beyond normal TSA allowed tolerances.  The investigative team concluded that the Agave Springs was a victim of fatal engine failure resulting in the destruction of the vessel during wormhole transit.  Charges have been filed against the vessel’s owners and several personnel at the Mars Station inspection facility. There were 32 crew and passengers aboard the Agave Springs.  Notable among these was Cynthia Le Sueur, retired actress and activist for colony rights.  She was in route to permanently retire as a colonist.  (Archive #A45998J2)